New Zealand have recalled allrounder Corey Anderson and pacer Mitchell McClenaghan in their 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy, that was named on Monday (April 24). Fast bowler Adam Milne has also been included in the squad after the selectors were pleased with the trio proving their fitness in the ongoing Indian Premier League.
Anderson last played in a One-Day International in October last year against India and was plagued by a back injury, as a result of which he was playing only as a batsman since his recovery. The 26-year-old has slowly started bowling recently though and that might have played a huge role in the selectors bringing him back. McClenaghan hasn’t featured for New Zealand since his side’s semifinal defeat at the hands of England in the World T20 last year but has shown impressive form for Mumbai Indians. Milne has also not played for New Zealand since the World T20 semifinal and has featured in a couple of games for Royal Challengers Bangalore so far.
“It’s been good to see all three back on the park and bowling; together they add a lot of experience to our squad,” New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said. “Mitch and Adam have been running in well, and Corey has shown he’ll be capable of providing an option with the ball.
“We believe it’s an exciting squad; an experienced squad, and one that has the batting power and the bowling variations to prevail in a potentially high-scoring tournament. Having four all-rounders (including Mitchell Santner) certainly helps with balance, and the return Mitch and Adam will offer options with the new ball, through the middle of the innings, and in the death overs.”
While Kane Williamson will continue to lead the side, opener Tom Latham will be the backup wicketkeeper. New Zealand will play a tri-series in Ireland ahead of the Champions Trophy involving Bangladesh and the hosts. Their first Champions Trophy fixture is against Australia on June 2, following which they will take on hosts England (June 6) and Bangladesh (June 9).
SQUAD: Kane Williamson (C), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Neil Broom, Colin de Grandhomme, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne, Jimmy Neesham, Jeetan Patel, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.
